Back-to-School Safety TipsSanta Monica schools are back in session this week. You can help prepare your children for the experiences they will face at school each day and help create a safer school environment. Review the following tips with your children on how to protect themselves as they prepare to go back to school.

Getting to School: • Give yourself plenty of time as you and your children adjust to the new school schedule. • Map out a safe way for your children to walk to school or to the bus stop. • Work with other parents in the neighborhood to ensure that children in the neighborhood are supervised closely to and from school. • Work with your neighbors and your child on identifying “safe houses” in the neighborhood; homes where your child is familiar and can ask for help if need be. • Point out places they should avoid such as vacant lots, alleyways, and construction areas. • Encourage your children to use the “buddy system.”• Teach your children to never speak to strangers or go anywhere with a stranger – and let them know it’s okay to report if a stranger tries to approach them. • Teach your children to always be aware of their surroundings. Be aware of slow-moving vehicles or parked vehicles that appear to be occupied. Choose a different route or walk on the opposite side of the street.• Children need to pay attention to traffic signals and use crosswalks with a crossing guard, if available.

After School:• Have your children check-in with an adult as soon as they get home. • Show them how to properly lock all doors and windows. • Make sure they know to never open a door to a stranger. • Establish a set of rules: who can come over, when homework must be done, and any chores they must do before you get home. • Find a trusted neighbor who will allow your children to come over in case of an emergency. • Establish strict rules regarding Internet usage.

“IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING” – Parents and children alike should be aware of their surroundings. If you or your child becomes aware of something or someone suspicious near the school, report it to the Santa Monica Police Department. We want to know!